Manchester United star Harry Maguire has been left out of England's squad for the World Cup. The 33-year-old centre-back is said to be 'gutted and shocked' by Thomas Tuchel's decision, which emerged on the eve of England's World Cup squad announcement.
Maguire's England Recall
Maguire earned a recall to the England squad in March, featuring in both of their friendlies. He hadn't played for the Three Lions since September 2024. However, Tuchel made comments following the camp that Maguire lacked 'mobility' and was fifth in his centre-back pecking order. According to talkSPORT, the England manager has now informed Maguire that he will not be going to this summer's tournament in North America.
Impact on Maguire's International Career
Tuchel is due to announce his call-ups on Friday morning and explain his thinking at a subsequent press conference. Maguire also missed Euro 2024 through injury, and this omission could spell the end of his international career. The 33-year-old has been a key part of Manchester United's resurgence under Michael Carrick, finishing third in the Premier League. But with Marc Guehi and Ezri Konsa expected to be Tuchel's preferred pairing, he has missed out.
Other Defenders in Contention
Maguire's absence also boosts the chances of Dan Burn and Levi Colwill making the cut. Trevoh Chalobah, who has been out injured, could also be in contention, with Tuchel having said that the Chelsea centre-back is ahead of Maguire. 'I haven't changed my mind, but I see other players I like to start for us, I see Konsa and Guehi ahead,' Tuchel explained. 'I see Chalobah, on the level of mobility, as slightly ahead of him (Maguire). I see other players ahead with a different profile. Also John Stones, but he had injuries, so he needed to come to camp.'
Maguire's Previous Fears
Maguire feared that his England career was already over before his recall as part of an enlarged squad. 'When you don't get picked, when you've been a regular for six or seven years, it's tough,' he admitted. 'I spoke to the manager and he told me I was in. I phoned my family. My mum was on holiday and she was crying. I'm in a position now in my career where it is not so much about myself. I'm 33. If I play one minute at the World Cup or every game, I will do everything to make sure this country is successful.' But that chance appears to have gone.
